5,966 fires recorded in 2020

Ghana’s National Fire Service (GFS) revealed that as of December 21, the country had recorded 5,966 fires this year.

Fire Chief Edwin Ekow Blankson, in his Christmas post on Thursday, noted the recorded underworld was a 4.9% increase from a figure of 5,673 for the same period in 2019.

According to him, while the significant increase can be attributed to the increase in domestic activities during the lockdown period, it also shows that citizens still have not given fire safety protocols the urgency and attention that they require. they deserve.

“The last quarter of the year has been a great test and a challenge for the Service as we have had to deal with numerous fires in some of our main markets and in other regions with all available resources.

“It is however gratifying to note that we have so far been able to weather the storm and bring some relief to the many affected,” he said.

With less than 12 p.m. Christmas time, Mr Blandson said fire prevention is a shared responsibility and therefore urged everyone to emulate good safety practices by installing early warning and warning systems as well as by acquiring fire extinguishers.

“I want all of the fire safety advice that is released to receive the attention it needs to help prevent unwanted fires, but if that should happen, please feel free to call our emergency number, 112, as we have deployed a national program. Red alert that will see other men waiting 24/7, ”he encouraged.

The Chief Officer then congratulated all the firefighters for their professionalism and their commitment to serving the country.

“As an important partner in national development, we must appreciate the fact that every day gives the Service the opportunity to rename itself to strengthen its image and to gain the necessary support and confidence from the general public.

“So I urge all staff to be very disciplined and to live above reproach. We need to maintain a high level of professionalism, integrity and exert a positive influence on the communities we live in during the holiday season and beyond.